Ong: Orality is critical to humanity. It's the most important element of our everyday lives.
Jenkins: Ah, yes. But, that sense of orality has transformed and developed across multiple different platforms.
Ong: But do you really think that the benefits from these other platforms are just as great as the benefits of pure orality?
Jenkins: Think about it. We now have numerous more methods to write, express, and spread our thoughts. It's quite remarkable that we no longer have to do so through a simple face-to-face conversation with one another.
Ong: But don't you think that we lose a sense of orality when that communication is not face-to-face?
Jenkins: This technological revolution is transforming our oral and literate culture for the better. Think about how much research and information you can gain access to by using a computer or a phone. Going beyond that, even communication. This media is giving us the ability to communicate in ways that were not previously imaginable. They are expanding our communication.
Ong: Don't you think that oral communication is the most important form of communication though? This form of speech allows for a completely different form of interpretation.
Jenkins: Yes, that is true. But with the media, we're constantly connected with the outside world. Think about life outside of oral culture. Think about politics, business, education...the list is endless.
Ong: That is true. And with the election coming up, I guess that form of communication has in fact allowed us to follow the trends and what's going on in the political world.
Jenkins: Exactly! Can you imagine this current election without the communication through news reports, television broadcasts, etc.? Personally, I would have no idea what's going on.
Ong: I agree. I know all that I know through what I've read, and what I've watched on the television. Although it's not the traditional form of orality that I'm a strong advocate for, it's definitely proven to be helpful.
Jenkins: It keeps us up to date and allows for endless room for personal thought and interpretation.
Ong: You're right. Speaking of the election...have you voted yet?
Jenkins: No, in fact, I have not. Shall we go?
Ong: Yes, let's go make our mark.
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